Iran's Foreign Minister, Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, issued a warning to Israel, cautioning against any military actions directed at Iranian interests. He declared that Iran has finalized its "defense and counteroffensive measures" and called upon the international community to intervene and prevent Israel from conducting military operations against Iran.

During discussions on the Middle East situation at the UNSC, Amir-Abdollahian asserted that Iran has completed its legitimate defense and countermeasures. He emphasised the need for the Israeli regime to cease any further military adventurism targeting Iranian centres, assets, and interests.

Amir-Abdollahian warned that if the Israeli regime were to illegally use force and violate Iran's sovereignty, the Islamic Republic of Iran would not hesitate to assert its inherent right to deliver a decisive and appropriate response, compelling the regime to regret its actions.

He accused Israel of launching a missile attack on Iranian diplomatic premises in Damascus on April 1, which he deemed a clear violation of international law, including the United Nations Charter and the Vienna Convention.

He criticised the US, UK, and France for not condemning the attack on Iranian diplomatic premises in Damascus and expressed regret over the UNSC's inaction despite repeated requests from Iran. He accused the White House of tacitly approving Israel's actions.

Iran will not tolerate such a brazen military attack on its Embassy, considering it a violation of sovereignty. Despite showing restraint against previous attacks, Iran criticises the White House's support for Israel's actions and the Security Council's inaction.

Iran's attack on Israel on April 13th was deemed necessary due to repeated aggressions against Iranian interests, particularly its embassy in Syria. It was carried out in self-defence under international law, with a focus on military targets and avoiding civilian casualties. The attack was limited and proportionate in scope.

Iran retaliated against an alleged Israeli air strike on its consulate in Syria by launching several drones and missiles towards Israel, resulting in the deaths of three top Iranian generals. Israel Defence Forces (IDF) spokesperson Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari reported that approximately 99 percent of the 300 or so projectiles fired by Iran at Israel overnight were intercepted by air defences, according to The Times of Israel.

Hagari stated that the IDF's aerial and technological superiority, along with a robust fighting coalition, effectively countered the Iranian threat by intercepting the majority of the projectiles.

During a cabinet meeting on April 17, Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu asserted that Israel would independently take necessary actions to safeguard its security, even if it contradicts advice from allies, according to The Times of Israel.

Netanyahu made this statement following discussions with the UK and German foreign ministers, David Cameron and Annalena Baerbock, who visited Israel.

Addressing the cabinet, Netanyahu acknowledged the suggestions and advice from the visiting leaders but affirmed Israel's commitment to making its own decisions.

Image source: ANI